Finance and Financial Management Services at The University of Alabama
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Alabama's finance program puts graduates on a strong upward trajectory that distinguishes it from typical state options. Starting at $55,580—already above both the state median of $50,939 and national median of $53,590—earnings jump to $72,138 by year four. That 30% growth rate signals that Alabama graduates are landing roles with genuine advancement potential, not dead-end positions. Among Alabama's 16 finance programs, this ranks at the 60th percentile, trailing only UAH and Auburn among major state schools.
The $25,000 in typical debt sits comfortably below the 1:1 threshold that creates financial strain, giving new graduates breathing room even in their lower-earning early years. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45, most graduates should manage repayment without difficulty while still building savings. The robust sample size means these figures reflect real outcomes, not statistical noise.
For families weighing Alabama against Auburn or UAH, the differences are marginal—all three deliver similar value. But compared to smaller state programs where graduates start in the low $40,000s, Alabama's combination of solid starting salaries and strong growth makes it a clear winner for students serious about finance careers.
Where The University of Alabama Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How The University of Alabama graduates compare to all programs nationally
The University of Alabama graduates earn $56k, placing them in the 58th percentile of all finance and financial management services bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Alabama
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Alabama (16 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Alabama | $55,580 | $72,138 | $25,000 | 0.45 |
| University of Alabama in Huntsville | $56,584 | — | — | — |
| Auburn University | $55,875 | $71,821 | $20,500 | 0.37 |
| Samford University | $53,059 | $70,946 | $19,000 | 0.36 |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | $50,939 | $62,664 | $22,500 | 0.44 |
| University of North Alabama | $43,512 | $50,370 | $22,250 | 0.51 |
| National Median | $53,590 | — | $23,332 | 0.44 |
Other Finance and Financial Management Services Programs in Alabama
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Alabama schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama in Huntsville Huntsville | $11,770 | $56,584 | — |
| Auburn University Auburn | $12,536 | $55,875 | $20,500 |
| Samford University Birmingham | $38,144 | $53,059 | $19,000 |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham | $8,832 | $50,939 | $22,500 |
| University of North Alabama Florence | $11,990 | $43,512 | $22,250 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At The University of Alabama, approximately 18% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 319 graduates with reported earnings and 328 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.